QR payments
How to Check a Payment QR Code Before You Pay
Before paying through a QR code, check where the code came from, use the appropriate payment app, and review the recipient and amount before authorising.
A code that scans successfully is readable. That alone does not establish that it belongs to the business you intended to pay.
Check where the code came from
At a shop, use the payment code the merchant directs you to. If several signs are displayed, confirm which one belongs to the business and which payment service it uses.
Look for anything that needs clarification: a sticker covering another code, a business name that does not match the setting, or a payment sign placed somewhere unexpected.
A replacement sticker can be legitimate. The useful response is to verify it with the merchant before paying.
For an online order, confirm payment instructions through the business contact you already know. Be cautious if an unfamiliar number suddenly sends different details.
Use an app that supports the code
QR codes can contain different kinds of information. Some open websites; others are intended for particular payment services.
For a GoTap QR payment, scan through GoTap and review the payment details there. Both the sender and recipient need GoTap.
Recognising a code with your phone camera does not mean every banking or payment app can use it.
If it opens a website, inspect the destination
The US Federal Trade Commission has documented scams in which replacement QR codes lead people to imitation websites.
Before entering information, check the website address carefully. Watch for misspellings, extra words or a domain that differs from the service you expected.
A padlock or HTTPS connection does not establish that the business behind a website is trustworthy.
If something looks wrong, close the page and open the provider’s app or known website yourself. Avoid entering your banking password, card details or other sensitive information into an unexpected page.
Do not give your PIN or one-time password to a seller or someone claiming to help you complete the payment.
Review who will receive the money
Check the recipient name on the payment review screen.
A business may receive payments under a registered company name that differs from its shop sign. Ask the merchant to explain the difference before proceeding.
Do not continue simply because someone says, “That is the account everyone uses.” You should understand who you are paying.
Then check:
- The amount and currency.
- Any fee shown.
- The total you are authorising.
- The account or balance you are paying from.
If anything differs from what you agreed, pause and resolve it.